Matt Davison
Are you planning to go on a Zambian safari and wondering how you will get there? Traveling to a place you’ve never been will always come with challenges, but worry no more.
You’ll be happy to hear that the most popular Zambia safari tours have an airport nearby. Finding an airport close to your destination is crucial, especially if your accommodation is in the thick of the African savanna.
But, that’s not all. Landing at a close airport minimizes your total travel time, works out cheaper, and gives you access to amenities that aren’t readily available in the African bush.
Now pack your bags and prepare to land just a few miles away from your next African safari vacation.
Livingstone Airport (Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International)
Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport, formerly and more commonly known as Livingston International Airport, is located just 9.3 miles from the mighty Victoria Falls. As the third largest airport in Zambia, Livingstone Airport serves over a million travelers who visit these majestic falls annually.
Built in 1950, Livingstone Airport is the second oldest airport in Zambia, after Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe Airport in Ndola. The airport was established for the domestic market, but when tourists began flocking to Mosi-oa-Tunya, it was upgraded to international status.
Victoria Falls, or “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and for a good reason. These falls are the largest curtain of falling water in the world, with four different drops and over 132 million gallons of water gushing over giant cliffs every minute.
The falls are also home to a wide range of migratory bird species, like the Taita Falcon and Black Eagle. But if you want to see more than just birds, take a half-day guided tour through the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park to spot the area’s gorgeous wildlife.
How To Get to Livingstone International Airport
Livingstone Airport is just 3.1 miles away from Livingstone City. This charming town is abundant with fun activities and tourist attractions. Visit the historic Livingstone Museum, ride the Royal Livingstone Express, or stop by Zambezi Eco Adventures for activities like abseiling, bungee jumping, and flying fox.
Make the most of your Zambian vacation by adding Livingstone to your list. If you’re looking for an authentic Livingstone experience, book a 3-hour cultural bike tour and see the beauty of this town. You’ll also get to meet some of the friendly locals.
Flights From Lusaka to Livingstone Airport
Livingstone is a little over 301 miles from Lusaka, Zambia’s bustling capital, and you can choose to fly or drive via a private airport transfer. Due to it being in the country’s capital, Lusaka International Airport is where most international travelers land in Zambia.
The nation’s biggest airport, Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, receives tourists from 18 destinations. This is also where you’ll find plenty of shopping malls and other amenities. If you’re spending a few days in Lusaka, experience the city’s highlights by visiting the Zambia National Museum, attending a cooking class, or going on an adventure tour.
Flights From Johannesburg to Livingstone Airport
International travelers who can’t book a direct flight to Livingstone or Lusaka airport will likely have the best luck landing in South Africa. As home to the largest passenger airport in the country, Johannesburg is an ideal place for a connecting flight to Zambia.
With over 80 international arrivals, O.R. Tambo International Airport facilitates over 21 million passengers annually. Consider exploring this vibrant city’s attractions, from thrilling adventures in Soweto to history lessons at the Apartheid Museum; Joburg has so much in store for you.
There are also several Johannesburg safari adventures, so make the most of your time and book a game safari to Pilanesberg Nature Reserve.
Flights From Cape Town to Livingstone Airport
Cape Town is an international city brimming with beautiful coastal towns and vibrant culture. The main airport, Cape Town International Airport, receives passengers from about 23 destinations. Although the flight from Cape Town to Livingstone is around three hours long, the attractions in this city are definitely worth the travel time.
Take a Cape Town safari day trip and enjoy the Western Cape’s gorgeous wildlife, or get the more traditional experience and visit Robben Island. If you’d like to do some shopping, the V&A Waterfront is a great option, and the harbor also hosts a range of attractions like an aquarium, boat cruises, and riding the Cape Wheel.
Attractions Near Livingstone Airport
Livingstone is popularly known as Zambia’s “tourist capital.” Let’s take a narrow view at the history of the famous attractions in this area and the fun activities you can participate in during your visit to Livingstone. Look up the best time to visit Zambia to ensure your trip does not fall to the wayside.
Victoria Falls
While Victoria Falls may not be the highest or widest waterfall in the world, it is classified as the largest, thanks to its combined width of 5,604 feet. Discovered in 1855 by Scottish explorer David Livingstone, the falls were named after Queen Victoria.
But the locals call it “Mosi oa Tunya,” which means “smoke that thunders.” Some popular activities that you can do include whitewater rafting, a sunset cruise, and a scenic helicopter ride above the falls.
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is one of Zambia’s minor national parks. But the park boasts a vast array of incredible wildlife and thrilling activities. You can enjoy a daring bungee jump or leap off the Victoria Gorge Swing. The park is also where you’ll find the best elephant safaris in Africa.
Zambezi River
Africa’s fourth largest river and the water source for the incredible Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River, is the lifeline for much of the wildlife and vegetation in the area. The river also feeds the Kariba and Cahora Bassa dams, two of Africa’s biggest hydroelectric projects.
Tourists can enjoy a delicious dinner cruise along the Zambezi, spot the gorgeous birdlife in the region, and a tour to Livingstone Island, where you can swim in the Devil’s Pool.
Livingstone, Zambia Airport | Wrapped Up
When visiting Zambia’s south region for a once-in-a-lifetime experience of the Victoria Falls, landing at Livingstone Airport is your best bet. Book into one of the best hotels in Livingstone and enjoy a fun African family vacation with unlimited excursions and wildlife viewings.
